The challenges facing the ‘Beedi’ Industry in the country were addressed during a meeting that took place at the Presidential Secretariat this morning (Jan.04).

Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, State Minister for Finance; Kanaka Herath, State Minister for Technology; and Sagala Ratnayaka, Senior Adviser to the President on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff presided over the discussion.

Extensive deliberations took place regarding the issues and irregularities arising in the importation of raw materials for the beedi industry, according to the President’s Media Division (PMD).

Consequently, emphasis was placed on the need to revise the tax policy related to the importation of essential raw materials for the beedi industry. The agreement was to restructure it through formal channels. Additionally, measures to curb the illicit import of raw materials were highlighted during the discussion.

Furthermore, consensus was reached on the annual registration of importers and beedi manufacturing establishments. Revision of the registration fee was also discussed at length during the meeting.

Sagala Ratnayaka advised the relevant officials to take necessary measures to prevent the importation of cut and processed ‘Tendu’ leaves and to take immediate steps to prepare a formal legal framework to solve the problems related to the industry.